Spallation Neutron Source

SNS produces neutrons with an accelerator-based system that delivers short (microsecond) proton pulses to a steel target filled with liquid mercury through a process called spallation. Those neutrons are then directed toward state-of-the-art instruments that provide a variety of capabilities to researchers across a broad range of disciplines including physics, chemistry, biology, and materials science.

With its more intense, brighter source of neutrons and world-class instrument suite, SNS provides the neutron scattering community with unprecedented research opportunities. The facility allows for measurements of greater sensitivity, higher speed, and higher resolution and in more complex sample environments than have been possible at other neutron facilities around the world.

These details help lead to advances that can lower the cost, improve the efficiency, and improve the safety of products we use every day like:

SNS is available to researchers from all over the world with any level of experience. Submitted research proposals are reviewed by independent scientists from the neutron scattering community. Learn More